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Mull & Iona, Isles of Enchantment

Relax and soak up the spiritual peace of Iona

Mull & Iona, Isles of Enchantment

Experience the very different atmospheres of two captivating islands, separated by a narrow strip of water.

Your twin-centre break begins with three nights on the Isle of Mull – either right in the heart of Tobermory’s stunning harbourfront or you could choose a beautiful Scottish castle perched by the coastline. From either spot, you are well-placed to explore the island – from the sweeping sandy beaches at Calgary and Ardalanish to hikes inland in search of waterfalls, ruins and wildlife. We’ll provide plenty of recommendations tailored to your interests. Mull is renowned for its diverse wildlife: minke whales, as well as basking sharks, dolphins and porpoise, frequent these waters throughout the season. You could choose to take a guided boat trip, or alternatively a land-based wildlife safari in search of otters and eagles – do ask us to pre-book to ensure you don’t miss out.

There’s no better way to round-off a holiday than a couple of nights soaking up the spiritual atmosphere of tiny Iona. Most people visit on a day-trip to see the abbey, the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland thanks to Saint Columba. Staying overnight is therefore a rare privilege to experience the island at is tranquil best. Long summer evenings are perfect for a gentle stroll to the evocatively-named Beach at the Back of the Ocean, while sunsets can be spectacular.

If you’re interested in photography as well as wildlife, then take a look at our unique Island Photography & Wildlife Safari holiday, where you can learn how to capture Hebridean light and landscapes then find otters and eagles on the Isle of Mull.

Details

Day One – By Sea to the Isle of Mull

You start your journey by ferry from the port of Oban to Mull, with glorious views in all directions as you cross to Craignure. Your hotel is in the main island village, around 30 minutes’ drive.

Your Mull Accommodation

Choose between a an elegant guesthouse a stone’s throw from Tobermory’s main street, or a classic Scottish castle right by the coastline.

Small but perfectly formed, and resides amidst Tobermorys elegant conservation area. High above the harbour, you can escape the village bustle yet are still just a short walk from Main Street. Sweeping views across the bay can be enjoyed from large comfortable sofas in one of the two guest lounges. With just six small, but beautifully furnished, bedrooms two even have a four-poster bed the friendly owners aim to make your stay a rather luxurious home from home.

Alternatively, take a short drive beyond Tobermory to the impressive Victorian castle at Glengorm. Highland cattle may greet you as you head up the driveway towards this turreted pile. The huge open fireplaces, creaking wooden boards and many a nook and cranny give the place a wonderfully authentic feel. Pleasingly, there is no need to stand on ceremony as this is still very much a family home. Surrounded by many acres of highland estate, including Victorian bathing pools by the shore, a tearoom and coffee shop plus an extinct volcano, you’ll have plenty to explore right on your doorstep.

The Isle of Mull

A paradise for lovers of Scotland’s natural heritage, Mull is an island gem with an enviable diversity of wildlife thriving everywhere from dense woodland glens to the grassy slopes of Ben More. Its many miles of coastline boast fantastic sandy beaches – particularly at Calgary and Ardalanish – whilst off-shore is one of Europe’s prime habitats for whales and dolphins. You can also take a boat to visit the famous – and inspirational for Mendelsson – Fingal’s cave on Staffa. Meanwhile, lively Tobermory has a bustling vitality and is a great place. Brightly painted houses provide a colourful backdrop to the picture-postcard harbour and the ‘craic’ in waterfront bars rivals anything on the mainland.

Day Four – The Island of Iona

A scenic drive from one side of Mull to the other will take you to the tiny ferry port of Fionnphort, in the south west where you will leave your car behind and catch the next ferry to this very special island.

Your Iona Hotel

Iona’s popularity as a day-trip destination is in stark contrast to the numbers of people who stay there overnight, and this is an ideal way to experience the peace and even mysticism of an island which has played a notable role on Scottish society for hundreds of years. The hotel was built in 1868 as the village inn and has two comfortable lounges with open fires, a plant filled sun lounge and a spacious dining room with antiques and family portraits; all overlook the Sound of Iona to the pink and blue hills of Mull. There are only fifteen cosy bedrooms with en suite facilities, as well as period furniture and original paintings. The hotel lies within walking distance of the Abbey and only 200 yards from the jetty. They serve freshly prepared real home cooking using many of their own organically grown vegetables. Dishes include local produce such as wild Mull salmon, venison, Scottish lamb, Tobermory smoked trout and cheeses.

Exploring Iona

A world away from Mull – but in reality just a short ferry ride across the Sound of Iona – this tiny island is a deeply spiritual place, a historic Christian pilgrimage that has drawn travellers to its enigmatic shores for more than a thousand years. The brilliant blue-green waters and clear light here have inspired poets, painters and pilgrims for centuries. Iona’s historical and spiritual significance dates back to the time of St. Columba, who founded a monastery here and helped to spread Christianity throughout Scotland. The present Iona Abbey dates from the eleventh century and is a true sanctuary, where services and special events are held every day throughout the summer months. The island is also noted for its wonderful sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, offering picturesque views over to Mull. As you explore this enchanting wilderness, whether on foot or bicycle, keep an eye out for some stunning wild flowers and rare birds, including corncrakes, sparrowhawks and buzzards.

Day Six

Return home by small ferry from Iona to Mull, then by larger ferry from Mull back to Oban.

Location

The two centres for this Scottish holiday are the enchanting islands of Mull and its tiny near neighbour, Iona.

Pricing

Option A: Staying in Tobermory & Iona: £535 per person for March, £555 for April, £610 for May & October, £640 for June to September.

Prices based on two people sharing double rooms ensuite for three nights on Mull and two nights on Iona, on a bed & breakfast basis. Price includes return ferry travel for a car and two passengers to and from Mull, and to Iona as foot passengers only.

We would also be happy to arrange a whole range of wildlife and boat trips for your holiday, including trips to Staffa, puffin and whale-watching (in season). Ask for more details – advance booking strongly recommended.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday.

All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.

The McKinlay Kidd Guarantee

All our holiday prices include a service charge of £9 per person per night towards the costs we incur in researching, planning and designing your holiday.

We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests.

My first trip through the western Highlands was a wonderful discovery of old and new. Coming from Ireland originally, I have strong beliefs that the I...

Reviews

We had a great time thanks. We saw whales, otters, eagles and seals. Local food was amazing. Both islands absolutely beautiful.

Shelagh & Mark, Merseyside, England

Check availability for Mull & Iona, Isles of Enchantment

This holiday is available from late March to the end of October.

To check the latest availability for this holiday complete the form below or call us. We will respond to your availability check within one working day if at all possible. Please bear with us on this - we work with a hand-picked selection of smaller hotels, guest houses, and other independent businesses, ensuring that you have the chance to explore off the beaten track and really get under the skin of the destination.

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